Sonko Walks the Talk: Former Nairobi Governor Rewards Junior Starlets with KSh1 Million After Historic World Cup Qualification
NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has once again demonstrated his passion for Kenyan sports by rewarding the Junior Starlets with KSh1 million following their historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.
The generous gesture came moments after Kenya's Under-17 girls stunned South Africa 3-1 at a packed Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, sealing an emphatic 5-1 aggregate victory and booking the country's place at the global showpiece in Morocco later this year.
Sonko, who had earlier encouraged the team through a phone call before kickoff and pledged to reward them if they secured qualification, fulfilled his promise immediately after the final whistle. In an emotional presentation attended by jubilant players, coaches and supporters, the former governor handed over the KSh1 million reward in recognition of the girls' determination, resilience and patriotism.
Speaking after the presentation, Sonko hailed the Junior Starlets as national heroines who have inspired millions of young Kenyans by proving that talent, discipline and hard work can overcome any obstacle.
"Congratulations, our heroines. You have made Kenya proud," Sonko said while celebrating the team's remarkable achievement.
The reward adds to the growing wave of appreciation that has swept across the country following Kenya's qualification for the World Cup for the second consecutive time. Sports leaders, politicians and football stakeholders have united in celebrating coach Mildred Cheche's charges for writing another golden chapter in the nation's football history.
Reports indicate that Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga also announced cash rewards for the team, bringing the total bonuses awarded after qualification to approximately KSh2 million.
The celebrations are far from over.
The Junior Starlets are expected to be hosted by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, where the Head of State is expected to officially congratulate the players and technical bench for lifting Kenya's flag on the international stage. Additional recognition and government support are widely anticipated as the team begins preparations for the tournament in Morocco.
Kenya's qualification is being celebrated as more than just a sporting achievement. It is a powerful statement about the rapid growth of women's football and youth development in the country. After making their FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup debut in 2024, the Junior Starlets have now confirmed that their success was no accident, earning another ticket to the world's biggest youth football tournament.
For Mike Sonko, the reward reflects his long-standing tradition of supporting sportsmen and women beyond politics. His latest contribution has been widely praised as a morale booster for the young footballers, who will now shift their focus to representing Kenya against the world's best in Morocco.
As the nation celebrates, one message rings loud and clear: the Junior Starlets have made history, and Kenya stands firmly behind its new generation of football heroines.